It’s no secret we love the work of Dr. Mona Delahooke here at the Alliance Against Seclusion and Restraint. Of course, we were thrilled when we heard Dr. Delahooke was coming out with a new book with a focus on parenting. As of today, I have read the book from cover to cover and am thrilled to share that it is excellent. I wish I had this book when my children were born, that said I think any and all parents can benefit from this amazing book. Here are a few initial thoughts.

In her previous book, “Beyond Behaviors: Using Brain Science and Compassion to Understand and Solve Children’s Behavioral Challenges,” Dr. Mona Delahooke took important neuroscience principles and made them clear and approachable. Dr. Delahooke showed us how to look beyond behavior to understand where behavior comes from and ways to better support children. We learned from Dr. Delahooke that our biology influences behavior and that not all behavior is intentional. Simply put, we learned that much lies beneath the surface of the behavioral iceberg.

Dr. Delahooke now brings her wisdom and science-based approach to parenting in the new book “Brain-Body Parenting: How to Stop Managing Behavior and Start Raising Joyful, Resilient Kids.” The book makes the case that there is no single path to parenting every child. Each child has a unique brain and body platform and requires an individualized approach. The basis of Dr. Delahooke’s approach is co-regulation and relational safety. A theme in the book is that children and adults must feel safe and connected to thrive.

“Brain-Body Parenting” is an excellent book for any parent or individual who works with young children. The book uses stories and real-life examples to understand how to support and nurture growth in children. Dr. Delahooke is compassionate and encourages parents to take care of themselves and their brain and body platform. As Dr. Delahooke shares, we must be well regulated as adults to support the healthy growth of our children. This book can help you through the day-to-day challenges and enable you to raise children that will flourish.

Read it – you’ll be glad you did!